The Age of Digital Eye Strain

We live in the era of overwhelming screen presence and our eyes are at a loss. The advent of technology and our dependence on electronics happened faster than our bodies could adjust. Evolution happens over hundreds of generations, but computers, smartphones, and televisions took over our homes in just two or three generations.

Many people have jobs and hobbies that keep them in front of screens for a large portion of the day. Even though they have sat all day they feel exhausted. They may even experience physical pain including headaches. This is all due to digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome.

Computer Vision Syndrome Affects More Than Your Eyes

The focusing mechanism in your eyes are muscles. Muscles were designed to do work, to lengthen and contract. Human’s eyes were designed to keep a look out for everything around them, to avoid danger or find food. When seated in front of a computer monitor or a television screen we are forcing them to hold their position for hours on end. This isometric strain is exhausting for any muscles and your eyes are no exception.

The problem stems from the blue light that glows from our screens.

Short Wavelength, Big Problem

Blue light is close to UV light on the light spectrum, meaning it has a shorter wavelength. This short wavelength gives blue light its power. It penetrates deeper into the eye, causing harsher rays to reach the retina. It also scatters more, making it harder for your eyes to focus.

At first, you will notice symptoms in your eyes but with continued persistent exposure to screens (including the little one on your smartphone) you may experience

Light sensitivity

Burning or itching

Double vision

Blurry vision

Fatigue

Difficulty keeping eyes open

Headache

Neck pain

Back pain

Dry Eyes

Watery Eyes

Trouble concentrating

Managing Digital Eye Strain

For the next few hundred years, our eyes will continue to evolve to deal with the blue light emitted from our TVs, phones, and computers. Until then, take hope in the steps you can take to mitigate the stress caused on your body by this syndrome.

Choose glasses with blue light filters to reduce the amount of light hitting your retinas. This special coating can be added to most prescription lenses or safety eyewear. Ask one of our opticians how we can help you reduce the strain on your eyes.

The 20-20-20 Rule

To keep your 20/20 vision remember the 20-20-20 rule:

Every 20 minutes

Look at something 20 feet away

For at least 20 seconds

This is similar to getting up to stretch your legs. Your eyes get a break from focusing close up, and a break from the blue light assault.

Visit Our Office

We would love to meet you in person. Drop by our office and say hello. We're located on Cope Lane and Stonebridge Boulevard.